West Virginia to give young people $100 bond to get covid vaccine

A US state says it will offer young people a $100 savings bond if they receive a Covid-19 vaccine.

West Virginia says it hopes the payment for those aged 16 to 35 will ‘motivate’ them to get the jab.

“I’m trying to come up with a way that’s truly going to motivate them, us , to get over the hump,’ Governor justice said.

“Our kids today probably don’t realize just how important they are in shutting this thing down,” State Governor Jim Justice added.

There are particular concerns that younger people may be more hesitant about receiving the jab.

About 52% of its 1.5 million eligible residents have already received the first jab. But some 50% of the population might be resistant on getting the jab.

The incentive means those who are vaccinated within the age group can get the money , plus interest, at a later date. It will also be offered to anyone under the age group who has already been vaccinated.

The payments will be funded by a $1.9tn coronavirus relief package. The package is known as CARES, that came into law in the US last month.

The Governor said that the state had ” vetted this in every way” to ensure the funds can legitimately be used for the saving bonds.

According to a survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation conducted last month , shows young adults are more likely to be hesitant about getting the jab than their elders.